Generator sound blanket

[nwboater]

In the next couple of weeks I will be installing a small DC generator (Ample Power) in my engine room. I know it will be noisy, even turning 1800 rpms, so I'm thinking about ideas for a sound enclosure. Anyone have experience making / using a lead-lined blanket to enclose the genie? It's small -- 30" x 16" x 16".



-- Edited by nwboater on Thursday 16th of February 2012 08:49:45 PM


-- Edited by nwboater on Thursday 16th of February 2012 08:50:41 PM

[Marin]

Be mindful of cooling. While the engine is, I assume, water-cooled the generator itself*is (usually) not. A tightly fitting blanket-type shield might cause problems in this respect. You might be better off building a simple rigid enclosure designed to give you access to the things you need to check or service that also provides for some air space or circulation inside the enclosure.


-- Edited by Marin on Thursday 16th of February 2012 08:55:10 PM

[Egregious]

I had a fine sound enclosure for my generator, but when I needed maintenance like changing the raw water pump, it just got in the way.* I removed the enclosusre blankets and I really don't think the enclosure made that much of a difference.* Now, since it is a Westerbeke it is loud as Hell anyway so nothing will mask the noise and removing it in my case was a good idea.

[C lectric]

A friend has one of the DC units, Not Ample Power, but the same idea. One lung Kubota driving a~150A alternator. It's actually not bad. It can be heard outside as a putt, putt and inside but it is not obtrusive.

May be worthwhile to take a wait and see attitude about the internal noise particularily if some attention is paid to isolate the unit from the hull.

I agree about a blanket causing a problem with the alternator.

No experience with building a box like that but I have used the 1" decoupled foam to can some of the engine noise. It does work and work well.

Just consider how you will gain access to the unit for mtce and repairs. McMaster Carr offers some interesting latches, toggle type and others which may be of use to you for quick access panels. Even the use of 1/4 turn fasteners, can't remember the name but often used in race cars for secure but quick access to the mtce areas.

Keep in mind that any holes through the enclosure will allow a lot of noise to escape, even a small hole, so barriers and baffles need to be considered.

Look up Soundown Corp. for information about the foams and hints.

[Marin]

C lectric wrote:
. Even the use of 1/4 turn fasteners, can't remember the name but often used in race cars for secure but quick access to the mtce areas.

*They're called dzus fasteners.

[bluebyu]

Or Camloc

[Per]

you might be able to use this materias
http://info.acoustiblok.com/acoustiblok-products/l

[Per]

btw amplepower has some interesting options for battery charging and also high output alternators and regulators.
http://www.amplepower.com/products/index.html

[skipperdude]

nwboater wrote:
using a lead-lined blanket to enclose the genie? It's small -- 30" x 16" x 16".

*Is your gen already enclosed in a box I have seen many that are.

Lead is the most effective sound proofing you can get.5/32" of lead is equivalent to a cinder block wall 6 blocks thick.

Build a plywood box around it and line it with a 32nd of sheet lead you can get it at roofing ( used for chimney flashing) supply or sometimes plumbing supply outfits.

It will quiet things down I guarantee.* I used it on the hatch covers to my engine room.*I then encased it all in a layer of fiberglass so I know mine is safe. Made ahugh difference.

I've looked around on line regarding lead poisoning as long as you don't eat it. It isn't an issue. If you are worried about it check out Soundowner they carry a lead sheathing for just such a purpose.

The idea is if you box it in there isn't any worry about a blanket getting in the way.

SD

*

*


-- Edited by skipperdude on Friday 17th of February 2012 02:35:48 PM

[nwboater]

Everyone, thanks for the feedback. Maybe a combination of your ideas...a simple frame mounted to the generator base with lead lined panels fastened to the frame with easy-off fasteners. Guru, I will look at lead flashing...a similar product was*used in*the engine box in my first (wood) boat. Also, good suggestion about isolating/decoupling the*mounting hardware from the hull. I will update you all when this project gets underway*-- rs*

[johnma]

My genset has a tubular frame around it. the blanket has a top and sides that are velcroed to each other with access panels held on with velcroe to check oil, change filters, etc. The frame allows air movement around it. You might check with a Kohler dealer; what you want may be sitting on a shelf somewhere
John
390 Mainship

[C lectric]

Simple lead sheeting is not as effective as the decoupled foams. I have lead sheet under the plywood sole in my boat and the foam made the noise tolerable. Yes the lead helped but the foam did more. The older foams actually used ground lead as the decoupling and dampening layer but the foam absorbed the sound.
Use both for the best effect of course.

[FF]

Go modern,,

www.videoworks.it

[Daddyo]

FF,

What in the world does that site have to do with sound blankets?

[FF]

They offer sound suppression equipment for engine rooms for large charter tubs.

And the concept is reduced NOISE!

REnt a 60 meter boat , and who wants to hear engine sounds?

Advantage , no creations of leaded sheets to disassemble to see the noisemaker , and quieter underway with the main engine(s).